Another build thread? Yep, my track-style T

[J. Robinson]

I had the engine and transmission sitting in place on a couple of pipes stuck through the frame and it fit nicely, so it's time to make some permanent mounts.

After considerable thought, I decided to use the S-10 mounts. I could have fabricated a saddle mount, but there aren't any easily useable bolt-holes in the front of the 4-banger block like a V-8 Chevy. I could have built solid mounts, but I have seen them cause cracked blocks. So, here's what I did.

First, I cut two pieces of 3/16" x 3" flat stock (4 5/8" long) to fit the back of the S-10 mounts and drilled 13/32" holes to match. At this point I discovered that the mounts are not exactly identical; they are labeled "R" and "L" and the holes are reversed from one side to the other (upside down). After bolting the plates to the mounts, I tack-welded the nuts in place.

Next step was to bolt the mounts to the stock brackets on the engine and make sure the engine is centered in the frame. Interestingly, I discovered that the engine is not symetrical. I centered the crankshaft pulley between the frame rails, of course, and discovered that the left mount plate is 1 1/4" from the frame rail while the right one is only 5/8" away! I cut the appropriate size spacers form the 3/16" x 3" flat stock and tacked them in place. (Left side shown in picture)

Lastly, I cut and notched a short piece of 3/4" tubing to support the bottom of the mount plate. This piece is installed forward of center so it would clear the nut on the back side of the mount plate. After everything was welded securely (some final welding will be done when I blow the car apart for finishing), I removed the pipe from under the oil pan; the front of the engine is now sitting on its own permanent mounts.